Cammy Russell was disappointed to be on the losing side after netting his first goal of the season, but the young striker is confident the Diamonds can bounce back against Dumbarton.

 

Russell’s goal gave Airdrie the lead at East Fife last weekend, but the Bayview men turned the game on its head to secure a late win.

 

The defeat left the 20-year-old with mixed feelings.

 

“I was happy to get back in the team and get a goal, but obviously the result is the most important thing and we failed to deliver on that front unfortunately.

 

“We all played poorly. It helps to get a good start and we got that, but we gave away the goal too quickly and things didn’t go our way after that. Hopefully we can put that right this weekend.”

 

Russell’s first start of this season was his 21st overall for the club, but with increased competition for places upfront, he has found his first team appearances mostly restricted to cameos from the bench.

 

With the reintroduction of the Reserve League this season, Cammy has also been playing - and scoring - for the Diamonds’ second string.

 

“At my age you just want to be playing games, and I’m happy playing for the reserves every week if I’m not playing for the first team.

 

“I’m pleased with how I’m playing - it’s important getting minutes in the legs and goals are always helpful!”

 

With newly-relegated Dumbarton visiting the Penny Cars Stadium on Saturday, a tough task awaits Airdrie as they try to bounce back from the Bayview disappointment.

 

Russell thinks the Diamonds can come out on top.

 

“Dumbarton have had a tricky start, but I don’t think results always tell the full story. It’s always going to be a tough game against them.

 

“It would be nice to stay in the team, but that’s up to the manager! I’m hopeful I can play my part anyway.

 

“Regardless, I’m confident we can get the win. We’ve got more than enough in the squad to go and do the business on Saturday.”

 

Manager Stevie Findlay is looking to make home advantage count.

 

“I’ve always said I think we should be confident and play with a sense of freedom at home.

 

“Dumbarton will be nobody’s fools on Saturday, but we’ve got to go out on the front foot and take the game to them.”

 

The Diamonds boss confirmed that Darryl Duffy is likely to miss out after suffering a setback on his return from an ankle injury. Dean Cairns has been suffering from illness all week and the midfielder’s situation is being monitored.